Episodes

  • Welcome to episode 115 of Raising Kellan, where we delve into the harmonious world of music therapy. Our guest is Martha Summa Chadwick, a virtuoso pianist, music educator, and advocate for the transformative power of music therapy. Join us as we explore the neural symphony of music's impact on the brain and how it can be a powerful therapeutic tool for individuals across the lifespan. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Harrell. As a reminder, the content on our podcast is for informational purposes only, so please consult a trained professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.

    Now, let's tune in to an enlightening discussion that might just change the way you think about music and its potential to heal and empower.

    00:00 This podcast is dedicated to the memory of Stephen Harrell

    01:26 Martha Sumer Chadwick is an advocate for music therapy

    02:21 You teach music therapy for children with autism

    05:38 Marta says music can be a powerful therapeutic tool for stroke victims

    08:44 Rhythm and entrainment play an important role in music therapy

    14:01 Music is beneficial when you use it for music enrichment, for instance

    19:07 Martha has worked with children with autism and developed notes to block

    For more information, visit Martha's website at marthasumma.com and explore the Notes to Blocks program at musictherapygatewayincommunications.org (mtgic.org). Don't forget to leave a rate and review on your podcast platform, and feel free to contact us at raisingkellanmail.com. Thank you for joining us on this melodic journey, and remember, keep climbing your mountain. Until next time, this is Marsh Naidoo signing off.



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  • In today's episode 114, Carolyn Kiel from Beyond Six Seconds Podcast joins us. Carolyn talks to neurodivergent entrepreneurs, creators, advocates, and more about their lives and identities, their stories, shatters misconceptions, breaks stigma, and showcases the vibrance of neurodiversity. As always, remember, the content on this podcast is for your information only, and if you seek specific advice for your situation, always contact a trained professional. The episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Harrell.

    Timeline

    2:06 A little about Carolyn Kiel

    6:00 How did the transition from singing to podcasting happen?

    11:39 Carolyn's pursuit of a diagnosis of Autism

    12:46 What are Carolyn's drivers?

    15:00 Standout moments on the podcast

    18:21 What next for the podcast?

    20:42 Valuable insights that Carolyn has learned from podcasting

    A transcript will be soon available at [email protected]

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  • Thank you for joining us on Raising Kellan, a podcast to empower parents raising children with disabilities. Kellan is starting to build his breath control and confidence on the mike! You will be hearing from him more as he begins to tell his own story!

    Today's episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Harrell

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  • Levi, Drake and Kellan chat on their annual meetup to honor CP Awareness Day.

    Timeline:

    2:52 Drake's new job at Dyersburg State Community College

    3:37 Kellan's first podcast!

    4:21 Levi's 7th Grade will be at High School!

    5:16 Drake's upcoming engagement

    5:52 Levi's Trip to Gatlinburg

    7:17 Levi's therapy

    9:11 Kellans' classes

    10:03 Levi's favorite subject

    11:30 Coach Tim Strayhorn and the Lady Trojans

    13:13 Plans for CP Day

    14:34 Plans for Nashville

    10:15 Levi's new home gym

    16: 15 Shout out to Ms Lillian!

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  • Jeff Strand Coordinator of Government and External Affairs from the Tennessee Disability Coalition will discuss the Priority Bills for Part 2/2 of the 113th Tennessee General Assembly. Here is a link to what we discussed last year (2023) on Episode 78

    TDC Priority Bills for 2024

    1) TennCare for Working Adults, where persons with disabilities can potentially buy into TennCare services (like HCBS) by paying a premium. Eligibility to participate in this program will exclude present income and asset thresholds, making Tennessee the 47th State that could allow for this provision.

    2) Paid Family Caregiving Resolution. As Jeff explains, this resolution would urge TennCare to work with community stakeholders to develop a comprehensive statewide paid family caregiving policy and program. If TennCare is unable to provide a solution in 2024, then TDC could write a Bill and bring this before lawmakers in 2025.

    3) Right to Repair, Part 2. This Bill will require payors to pay for wheelchair maintenance and make provisions for "less complex" repairs, like flat tires, to be made by independent repair persons.

    4) HB 2497/SB2146 will exempt two organizations from building dormitory-style, congregate living spaces within the State and bypass the State's anti-institutionalization laws, which prohibit the residence of more than four unrelated persons with disabilities in a group home or less than 500 yards from another group home.

    Wins: The Tennessee Drivers Placard language was cleaned up to modernize the language of the law.

    The transcript of our conversation will be available at www.raisingkellan.org

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  • In this podcast episode, Leanne Pirece from Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) talks about this unique program through the Tennessee Department of Human Services. Pre-ETS is a program that helps students between the ages of 14 and 22 with disabilities prepare for life after high school. The program offers services such as career counseling, advocating for oneself, budgeting, and basic life skills. Leanne explains that Pre-ETS works closely with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), which helps students find jobs or pursue further education after high school. She emphasizes the importance of parents understanding that the Individualized Education Program (IEP) does not follow the student to college or a job, and Pre-ETS and VR can help with the transition.

    Timeline:

    2:18 What is Pre -ETS?

    4:17 How do Pre-ETS and Vocational Rehab work together?

    6:50 Upcoming Resource Fair: March 28, 2024

    10:30 How does a parent connect with Pre-ETS?

    This episode is brought to you by Teletherapy Services LLC. Physical Therapy that gets you in motion.

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  • In this episode of the Raising Kellan podcast host Marsh Naidoo interviews Jennifer Cunningham, Vice President of Client Services at the Star Center in Jackson, Tennessee. They discuss assistive technology services such as pencil grips, screen readers, and augmentative communication devices for those who cannot speak. The Star Center provides vision services, including orientation and mobility training, as well as communication devices for individuals with speech impairments. They also have a grant program for farmers with disabilities called Tennessee Ag Ability. The services statewide through partnerships with vocational rehabilitation programs and the Tennessee Technology Access Program.

    Timeline:

    02:20 Jennifer Cunningham Introduction

    03:46 What is assistive Technology

    05:58 Services for the vision impaired

    06:13 Orientation and Mobility expert

    07:24 Magnifers and optical character recognition

    09:14 Speech-to-Text or Voice-to-Text

    10:59 Communication devices

    13:25 Insurance

    17:21 Statewide services offered by the Star Center

    20:46 Tennessee Agribility

    23:00 Conclusion


    https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/cSCIVxsOBHb




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  • Host Marsh Naidoo interviews Dr. Jennifer Graves, the president of the Star Center in Jackson, Tennessee. Dr. Graves discusses her connection to disabilities and her passion for helping individuals with differing abilities. She explains how the Star Center was founded by Margaret and Chuck Doumitt who wanted to provide services for their children with Batten's Disease. The center offers a wide range of services, including music therapy, assistive technology, employment services, and a reading clinic for individuals with dyslexia. She encourages listeners to reach out to the Star Center for more information on their services.

    Timeline:

    00:33 Introduction

    02:33 Dr Jennifer Grave's backstory

    05:21. Dr Grave's career and how she became involved with the Star Center

    06:53 The origin of The Star Center and the story of Margaret and Chuck T, Doumitt

    11:48 Services provided for pediatric clients

    12:10 Music Therapy

    14:32 Vocational Rehab

    16:03 Reading Programs

    21:35 Homecare

    23:33 Conclusion

    Linked episodes: Part 2 Assistive Technology with Dr Jennifer Cunninham at The Star Center https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/koMT7zTOBHb

    The episode is sponsored by Anderson Consulting your one-stop IT shop!

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  • In this podcast episode, the host, Marsh Naidoo, interviews Kim Larrick about their experience at Hope Heals Camp. Kim shares that her son, Ben, has a rare genetic condition called Menkes disease, which affects his mobility and other aspects of his health. Her daughter, Kelsey, has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Kim and her family learned about Hope Heals Camp through Instagram and decided to apply. Kim and Marsh discuss their favorite moments at the camp, including worship sessions, mom's party, and the talent show.

    Timeline:

    2:18 Introduction by Kim Larrick

    4:25 Ben and Menkes Disease6:01 Kelsey and Cerebral Palsy

    7:52 How did you learn about Hope Heals Camp

    10:50 Camp experience12:11 The Road to Nauvoo Alamba

    13:34 Highlights of Camp15:41 Kim and teaching elementary school.

    17:06 Managing time and the work-life balance when you have a child/children with disabilities.18:06 RoundupThis episode is brought to you by Anderson Consulting. Your one-stop shop for all your IT needs

    Another episode related to a Camp Experience is Episode 83: Camp Conquest

    https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/marsh-naidoo/episodes/Episode-83--Camp-Conquest-e21fvvj

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  • In this podcast episode, Marsh Naidoo interviews Kali Decker, a pediatric physical therapist who recently went on a mission trip to Uganda. Kali discusses her journey to becoming a pediatric physical therapist and the need for specialized care for children with disabilities. She also talks about the equipment drive being organized to collect pediatric equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers for her upcoming mission trip. The goal of the mission trip is to provide sustainable care and improve the quality of life for children in Uganda. Listeners are encouraged to donate equipment and support the project.

    Timeline:

    02:55 Kali Decker's Background and what put her on the trajectory to becoming a pediatric PT.

    5:13 Kali's mission trip to Masindi.

    6:31 Kim Decker and The Fellow of Christian Athletes (FCA)

    7:46 Planned Equipment Drive for Kali's Mission Trip.

    8:28 Items needed.

    10:30 Our take on helping locally and internationally.

    12:30 Kali relates Noah's story of mobility.

    14:02 What is OneWorld Health?

    15:12 Kali's plug to participate in the Equipment Drive.

    17:36 Closing Remarks

    This episode is sponsored by Dennis Anderson of Anderson Consulting in Newbern TN

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  • Today we chatted with Ashley Roberts, MRC, CRC vocational rehabilitation field supervisor here in NortWest TN.

    Timeline:

    3:27 What is vocational rehabilitation (VR)?

    3:54 Who does VR service and what services does it cover?

    4:16 How can parents get connected with VR?

    5:47 Is VR part of school and when do you enroll for services?

    11:58 Does VR involve finding independent living solutions?

    14: 06 Can VR coincide with other employment services?

    15:39 Conclusion.

    The transcript of this podcast can be found at www.raisingkellan.org

    This episode is sponsored by Anderson Consulting in Newbern, TN

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  • Drake Box and Marsh Naidoo recap the highlights of 2023, including our first-ever "Day At The Lake" live event held in Dyersburg TN on August 26, 2023.

    Savannah Pham has contributed a blog of the podcast highlights titled: Navigating Possibilities: A Year of the Raising Kellan Podcast, 2023. (Link to blog)

    We are enthusiastic about 2024. Here is a list of upcoming events to mark your calendar.

    1) Disability Day on the Hill on February 28, 2024, followed by Disability Advocacy Day on Monday, March 11, 2024, organized by the Tennessee Disability Coalition.

    2) Podfest Media Expo from 25-28 August 2024 in Orlando, Florida.

    3) Resource Ability Fair at Vocational Rehabilitation on Morgan Rd, Dyersburg TN on 28 March 2024 from 5-7 pm.

    Happy New Year!

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  • Melanie Westmoreland's Top 10 Christmas Kid's Gift List

    Melanie shares the therapy and fun-focused toys that she has discovered for her children. Here are her Top 10 suggestions:

    1) Magna-Tiles

    2) Bubble Puzzles

    3) Kinetic Sand

    4) Weighted Stuff Animals

    5) Sensory Swings

    6) Bubble Lamp

    7) Yoto Audio player

    8) Osmo Kit for Tablet

    9) Amazon Fire Tablet

    10) Gabb Phone

    DISCLAIMER: The suggestions on this list are general in nature and for individualized advice for your child's therapeutic toys an evaluation, assessment or conversation must happen with your physical therapist, occupational therapist, or speech therapist.

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  • In this episode of the Raising Kellan podcast, host Marsh Naidoo interviews Jordan Collins, the Associate Director at Our Place Nashville, an organization that provides housing solutions for individuals with disabilities in the Nashville area.

    Jordan shares his personal journey and how he became involved with Our Place. He explains that the organization aims to create inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can live independently and thrive. They offer affordable housing options and rely on partnerships with other organizations to provide additional support services such as employment.

    Jordan emphasizes the importance of community and discusses the concept of Ubuntu, which means "I am because we are." He encourages listeners to visit the Our Place Nashville website to learn more about the organization and get involved.

    Check out episodes #77 and #85 on the podcast which also discusses housing solutions for our community.

    2:25 Introduction of Jordan Collins from Our Place Nashville

    4:15 Discussion on housing options for individuals with disabilities

    5:54 Description of Our Place Nashville's mission and goals

    7:48 Explanation of the Friendship House model

    9:39 Overview of the onboarding process for joining the community

    13: 00 Information on the locations of Our Place Nashville's properties

    15:29 Emphasis on the importance of community and support

    18:12 Explanation of the role of Our Place Nashville in providing housing and support

    23:29 Mention of the concept of Ubuntu and its significance

    28:38 Invitation to learn more about Our Place Nashville and contact the organization.

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  • In this podcast episode, Naveh Eldar, host of The Landscape Podcast chats about his experience with Disability First Employment and the Project Search program. He highlights the importance of disability inclusion in the workplace and the progress that has been made in raising awareness and promoting employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Naveh encourages advocates to approach others with love and understanding, recognizing that everyone has something to learn.

    October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month #NDEAM

    Timeline:

    3:25 Introduction and Background Experience of Naveh Eldar

    9:46 Association for People Supporting Employment First (APSE).

    12:35 Project Search and how Naveh was part of the team that implemented a Project Search at their company. Please check out Season 1, Episode 1 and Season 2, Episode 17 on The Landscape Podcast to learn more about.

    18:33 Bias and the importance of workplace disability training.

    Challenges of finding employers and programs for persons with disabilities in rural areas.

    26:15 Changing the narrative

    30:35 Closing Remarks



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  • In today's episode, I chat with co-leaders Ashley Parks and Ginna Rauls who tell us the backstory of Joy Life 901 and the Memphis Disability Network! We discuss the origin story and programs such as the Breakfast Club, fitness programs, and the Memphis Joy Prom. They emphasize the importance of community and connection for parents and individuals with disabilities centered on Christ.

    Timeline:

    2:49 Ashley Parks and Ginna Rauls talk about the origin story of Joy Life 901.

    4:39 Ginna's introduction to the disability community.

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  • In today's episode of the Raising Kellan podcast, Marsh interviews Lori Green, the Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Association of Memphis and the Mid-South. Their mission is to empower and advocate for individuals with Down syndrome. Lori also talks about the various programs and services they offer, such as self-advocate classes, tutoring, and social events. She mentions their upcoming fundraiser, the Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, which will take place on October 29, 2023.

    Timeline:

    2:10 Lori's background

    3:38 Tennessee transitioned from institutionalization to community-dwelling for persons with disabilities.

    4:17 Services provided by DSA of the Mid South.

    10:02 Service area of DSA.

    11:49 Is DSA an affiliate or chapter organization?

    14:18 October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month and Oct 29 is STEP UP Walk for Down Syndrome.

    17:26 Closing Remarks.

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  • In episode #98 of the Raising Kellan podcast, host Marsh Naidoo is joined by Professor Alex Capps who was interviewed on Episode #92, and four students from the Fab Lab at the Wond’ry Vanderbilt's Center of Innovation. They discuss their work in adaptive fashion and the impact it has on the disability community and beyond. The students share their experiences and the skills they have gained through their work at the Wond’ry, highlighting the importance of collaboration and problem-solving. They also discuss the future of adaptive fashion and its potential to create a more inclusive world. The episode concludes with closing remarks from the students, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the Wond’ry and their excitement for the future of their work.

    Students interviewed: Brinda Ambal, Trieu Vy Trong, Sophia Potter, and Jeremiah Crosswhite.

    Timeline:

    2:00 Introductions and Visual Descriptions

    4:09 Impetus for this podcast episode.

    5: 16 What put y'all on the trajectory to join the Wond'ry and what are some of the adaptive fashion projects y'all have collaborated on?

    13: 08 Y'all come from such diverse backgrounds? So has fashion always been something on your radar?

    16:46 Student current majors?

    17:52 Your experience with regard to the disability community.

    20:55 How do you believe the experience at the Wond'ry is going to add a layer to your future work experience?

    23:21 Closing Remarks.

    A copy of the transcript will be shortly available at www.raisingkellan.org

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  • Houston High School in Germantown Tennessee is on fire!!! They host a transition school-to-work program and today I chat with Catherine Sadler and O'Malley two incredible teachers who lead the program together with Mr Brian.

    Timeline

    01:29 Memphis Disability Network

    02:27 Introductions

    04:09 What is the backstory of the transition program at Houston High

    11:24 When do you start transitional planning for a student with an IEP

    12:40 Pre-vocational training

    16:38 ADL Training

    19:34 How do y'all facilitate community opportunities for your students to gain workplace skills

    24: 33 What opportunities are available to students after they graduate?

    29:58 Project Search

    24:22 Future Plans

    29:58 Closing Remarks

    The transcript will be soon available at www.raisingkellan.org

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  • Today we are going to chat about the Eagle Access Program, a post-secondary program for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. We are joined by: Dr. Brigham Scallion, who is a co-founder of the program, as well as the Northwest Representative of the Tennessee Council for Developmental Disabilities; Dr. Jimmy Barham, who is the Dean of Arts and Sciences and Technology and part of the Planning and Implementation Committee at Eagle Access Program going at DSCC; Dr. Amanda Walker the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at the College and Nikki Erickson who is the current director of the Eagle Access Program.

    Timeline:

    00:19 Introduction with Visual Descriptions.

    02:28 What is Eagle Access

    03:22 Backstory of the Program

    04:20 Planning and Implementation.

    06:56 Pathways and referral sources to access the program

    08:55 Transportation to College

    09:33 Vision for the Program

    13:04 Where to after the completion of the 2-year program

    16:53 Mentoring as part of the program

    18:16 Application Process to the program

    20:49 Future wishes for the program

    24:45 Service Area that the program serves.

    26:04 Closing Remarks.

    A transcript of the podcast is available at www.raisingkellan.org

    For further information about the program contact:

    Nikki Erickson
    Eagle Access Program Director
    731-286-3208
    [email protected]

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